AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST Ransomware
AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on December 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick facts
How AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST ransomware works
File encryption patterns
AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/!Read__Me.tXt
About this analysis
This AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.
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